Preparation of Brain Slices

The brain-slice technique has been utilized in electrophysiological, morphological, biochemical, and pharmacological studies of almost all brain structures. A search of the literature between 1991 and 1995 on the Ovid Medline revealed 4387 entries that used the brain-slice technique; of these, 2038 are relevant to the study of receptors and neurotransmitters. This technique is widely used because it has many advantages over in vivo methods. It provides precise control over experimental conditions, such as temperature, Ph, and drug concentration. It also allows the examination of metabolic parameters and electrophysiological properties without contamination from anesthetics, muscle relaxants, or intrinsic regulatory substances. The stability of electrophysiological recording is greatly improved as the heart beat and respiration of the experimental animal are eliminated. The cells being studied can be located, identified, and accessed easily. Use of the brain slice has greatly increased our knowledge of the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). This technique is continuously improving and will remain valuable for a long time.